Knocked Up: The Podcast About Fertility and Women's Health

In this episode of Knocked Up, Jordi Morrison and Dr Raelia Lew unpack one of the newest breakthroughs in reproductive science: the creation of human egg cells from skin cells. Dr Raelia explains how stem cells work, what makes egg cells unique, and why this research is both exciting and still far from clinical use. Together they explore the science behind the process, the ethical and safety hurdles that must be overcome, and what it could mean for people who can no longer produce eggs naturally. While the potential is extraordinary, Dr Raelia reminds listeners that proven options like egg freezing remain the safest and most effective way to preserve fertility today. Find us on Instagram - @knockeduppodcast Join our community! Follow Women's Health Melbourne on Facebook and Instagram (@womenshealthmelbourne), and follow Dr Raelia Lew on Instagram (@drraelialew). Have a question about women's health? Is there a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au. We keep all requests anonymous. Women's Health Melbourne is a holistic care precinct, for more information about the work we do click here. This episode is brought to you by Ellechemy - Lubricants and intimate care to meet your needs created by women's health authority and Gynaecologist Dr Raelia LewDiscount Code for 10% off and free shipping: KNOCKEDUPWebsite: ellechemy.com.au/Instagram: @ellechemy.com.au Hosts: Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi MorrisonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In part one of understanding our fertility and peri/menopause, we unpack why fertility becomes more challenging as we approach perimenopause. Dr Raelia explains how shifting hormones, irregular cycles, and declining egg quality combine to make conception more difficult in our 40s. From understanding AMH and ovarian reserve to recognising the impact of age on egg health and miscarriage risk, this conversation explores what’s really happening to fertility in the decade before menopause and the options available for those still hoping to conceive. In part two we explore our options for conceiving in perimenopause and menopause.  Find us on Instagram - @knockeduppodcast Join our community! Follow Women's Health Melbourne on Facebook and Instagram (@womenshealthmelbourne), and follow Dr Raelia Lew on Instagram (@drraelialew). Have a question about women's health? Is there a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au. We keep all requests anonymous. Women's Health Melbourne is a holistic care precinct, for more information about the work we do click here. This episode is brought to you by Ellechemy - Lubricants and intimate care to meet your needs created by women's health authority and Gynaecologist Dr Raelia LewDiscount Code for 10% off and free shipping: KNOCKEDUPWebsite: ellechemy.com.au/Instagram: @ellechemy.com.au Hosts: Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi MorrisonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Part 2 of our 2-part series on lifestyle factors and fertility features Dr. Alexandra Harvey, Senior Research Scientist at Melbourne IVF. With 25 years of experience in embryology and fertility research, Dr. Harvey breaks down the science behind modifiable factors that can impact your fertility journey. In Part 2 we cover: Weight and inflammation – why body composition and hidden inflammation can make a big difference to fertility outcomes Smoking’s silent sabotage – how it damages egg and sperm quality and reduces IVF success rates Alcohol and conception – what the evidence says about “moderate” drinking and fertility health Stress and reproduction – the mind–body connection and why managing stress matters for conception Find us on Instagram - @knockeduppodcast Join our community! Follow Women's Health Melbourne on Facebook and Instagram (@womenshealthmelbourne), and follow Dr Raelia Lew on Instagram (@drraelialew). Have a question about women's health? Is there a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au. We keep all requests anonymous. Women's Health Melbourne is a holistic care precinct, for more information about the work we do click here. This episode is brought to you by Ellechemy - Lubricants and intimate care to meet your needs created by women's health authority and Gynaecologist Dr Raelia LewDiscount Code for 10% off and free shipping: KNOCKEDUPWebsite: ellechemy.com.au/Instagram: @ellechemy.com.au Hosts: Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi MorrisonGuest: Dr Alexandra HarveySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are joined by Dr. Tzippora Ben-Harim, head of Gynaecology at Women's Health Melbourne, about urinary incontinence after childbirth. Urinary incontinence is common, affecting 1 in 3 to 1 in 4 women postpartum and occurs in two main forms: stress incontinence (leaking with coughing/sneezing) and urge incontinence (not making it to the toilet in time). The condition results from pressure on the pelvic floor during pregnancy, trauma from vaginal delivery, and postpartum oestrogen deficiency, particularly in breastfeeding women. We discuss all types of treatment:  Conservative management including vaginal oestrogen therapy and pelvic floor physiotherapy satisfies most women's needs Pessaries can provide temporary relief for those requiring additional support Surgical options are typically reserved until family planning is complete due to risk of recurrence Lifestyle modifications include reducing caffeine intake and maintaining proper hydration Preventive measures include prenatal pelvic floor exercises and optimising general health before pregnancy Find us on Instagram - @knockeduppodcast Join our community! Follow Women's Health Melbourne on Facebook and Instagram (@womenshealthmelbourne), and follow Dr Raelia Lew on Instagram (@drraelialew). Have a question about women's health? Is there a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au. We keep all requests anonymous. Women's Health Melbourne is a holistic care precinct, for more information about the work we do click here. This episode is brought to you by Ellechemy - Lubricants and intimate care to meet your needs created by women's health authority and Gynaecologist Dr Raelia LewDiscount Code for 10% off and free shipping: KNOCKEDUPWebsite: ellechemy.com.au/Instagram: @ellechemy.com.au Hosts: Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi MorrisonGuest: Dr Tzippi Ben-HarimSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered why your fertility specialist tests both AMH and vitamin D? In this episode of "Knocked Up," Dr. Raelia Lew explains the relationship between these two crucial markers and why it matters for your fertility journey. Plus, find out how vitamin D impacts male fertility too, and why this "low-hanging fruit" could be a game-changer for couples trying to conceive. Find us on Instagram - @knockeduppodcast Join our community! Follow Women's Health Melbourne on Facebook and Instagram (@womenshealthmelbourne), and follow Dr Raelia Lew on Instagram (@drraelialew). Have a question about women's health? Is there a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au. We keep all requests anonymous. Women's Health Melbourne is a holistic care precinct, for more information about the work we do click here. This episode is brought to you by Ellechemy - Lubricants and intimate care to meet your needs created by women's health authority and Gynaecologist Dr Raelia LewDiscount Code for 10% off and free shipping: KNOCKEDUPWebsite: ellechemy.com.au/Instagram: @ellechemy.com.au Hosts: Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi MorrisonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unlike traditional patient-centred care, embryo-centred care focuses on optimising every step of the IVF process to prioritise what gives the embryo the best chance of success. Dr. Lew explains that IVF is not a one-size-fits-all treatment and each patient requires a highly individualised plan, including careful timing of egg retrieval, embryo transfer, and even whether to transfer embryos fresh or frozen. Dr. Raelia explains how embryo-centred care influences lab decisions, the role of scientific expertise in scheduling, and why sometimes delaying pregnancy to bank embryos can lead to better long-term family outcomes. The approach often requires balancing patient desires with what’s biologically best for both the patient and the embryo, ultimately aiming to improve live birth rates and overall success in fertility treatment. Find us on Instagram - @knockeduppodcast Join our community! Follow Women's Health Melbourne on Facebook and Instagram (@womenshealthmelbourne), and follow Dr Raelia Lew on Instagram (@drraelialew). Have a question about women's health? Is there a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au. We keep all requests anonymous. Women's Health Melbourne is a holistic care precinct, for more information about the work we do click here. This episode is brought to you by Ellechemy - Lubricants and intimate care to meet your needs created by women's health authority and Gynaecologist Dr Raelia LewDiscount Code for 10% off and free shipping: KNOCKEDUPWebsite: ellechemy.com.au/Instagram: @ellechemy.com.au Hosts: Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi MorrisonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Understanding Male Fertility: What You Need to KnowDid you know male factors contribute to infertility in over 50% of couples struggling to conceive? In this episode, Dr. Raelia breaks down what a semen analysis really tells us — and why one test is never the whole story. From sperm count and motility to the often-overlooked DNA fragmentation test, we explore how male fertility is assessed, what can impact it (hello, fevers and stress!), and which treatments might help. We also unpack the surprising impact of testosterone therapy, age-related risks, and when IVF with ICSI might be the best option. Whether you're starting your fertility journey or supporting someone who is, this episode offers essential insights into male reproductive health. Find us on Instagram - @knockeduppodcast Join our community! Follow Women's Health Melbourne on Facebook and Instagram (@womenshealthmelbourne), and follow Dr Raelia Lew on Instagram (@drraelialew). Have a question about women's health? Is there a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au. We keep all requests anonymous. Women's Health Melbourne is a holistic care precinct, for more information about the work we do click here. This episode is brought to you by Ellechemy - Lubricants and intimate care to meet your needs created by women's health authority and Gynaecologist Dr Raelia LewDiscount Code for 10% off and free shipping: KNOCKEDUPWebsite: ellechemy.com.au/Instagram: @ellechemy.com.au Hosts: Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi MorrisonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With elective egg freezing being so new, how we interpret the data in the context of today's population doesn't quite give the accurate story. Dr Raelia Lew explains.  We recommend listening to the 'Beyond Expectations' podcast episode "Kate Lancaster on What They Don't Tell You About Egg Freezing"  Find us on Instagram - @knockeduppodcast Join our community! Follow Women's Health Melbourne on Facebook and Instagram (@womenshealthmelbourne), and follow Dr Raelia Lew on Instagram (@drraelialew). Have a question about women's health? Is there a specific topic you'd like us to cover? Email podcast@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au. We keep all requests anonymous. Women's Health Melbourne is a holistic care precinct, for more information about the work we do click here. This episode is brought to you by Ellechemy - Lubricants and intimate care to meet your needs created by women's health authority and Gynaecologist Dr Raelia LewDiscount Code for 10% off and free shipping: KNOCKEDUPWebsite: ellechemy.com.au/Instagram: @ellechemy.com.au Hosts: Dr Raelia Lew and Jordi MorrisonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.